The Headmaster's words echoed through the Grand Hall, his voice imbued with power and serenity.
"Climb, and you may touch the heavens. Fall, and none shall catch you."
Around Alen, students listened in rapt attention—many with wide eyes, others with narrowed brows filled with ambition.
But Alen wasn't paying attention.
His gaze had been fixed on Lyra the entire time. Her face was focused, her posture calm but regal—like a sword hidden in silk. She looked as though she truly belonged here. And to Alen, she looked breathtaking.
A small smile tugged at his lips as he leaned forward slightly, resting his chin on his hand and just… watched her.
Lyra glanced sideways.
"Why are you looking at me like that?" she whispered, her cheeks tinged rose. "You should focus on what the Headmaster is saying!"
Alen chuckled softly.
"Don't worry," he said. "The only thing important to me right now… is you."
She turned red.
"Idiot…" she muttered. "You're going to get us both kicked out."
He leaned closer, lowering his voice, now more tender.
"Someone once told me: 'In this life, only do the things you want and love. Don't waste your second chance.'"
"So I'm doing exactly that."
Lyra blinked. "Who said something that wise?"
Alen gave a small smile, his gaze distant.
"You never know…"
Far beyond the mortal realm, in a place without form or time, a faceless being shimmered like moonlight across still water. It smiled.
"Live your life happier… That is my blessing to you, kind-hearted one."
---
The Announcement of the Pillar Champions
The Headmaster raised his hands once again, silencing the murmurs in the hall.
"Before we conclude, allow me to introduce the four Pillar Champions—the strongest freshmen of each division. These individuals will shape the future of the academy."
He gestured behind him, and four students emerged—each with their own aura, each a storm waiting to be unleashed.
1. Darius Veylor – Martial Pillar Champion. Towering and broad-shouldered, with crimson gauntlets and a heavy presence that bent the air around him. His body radiated battle-hardened ki.
2. Kaela Ardyn – Arcane Pillar Champion. Slender and composed, her silver eyes gleamed under her hood. Runes danced around her fingers, glowing softly with mana resonance.
3. Sorin Thorne – Divine Will Champion. Cloaked in white, his silver hair and pale skin gave him an ethereal presence. Rumors whispered that he could read thoughts and manipulate fear.
4. Beatrix of the Roaring Plains – Spirit Binding Champion. A wild girl with braided hair and a fiery temper. A thunder leopard curled beside her legs, purring like a volcano.
"You may meet them in battle, or walk beside them in peace," the Headmaster continued. "But know this—they are only the beginning."
"Today, there are no classes. Let the feast begin. Make friends… or rivals."
A golden wave of energy burst through the room as food and music materialized. The hall transformed into a grand banquet, with floating dishes, dancers formed of light, and shimmering wine goblets that refilled themselves.
---
Beneath the Glittering Sky
Lyra tugged on Alen's sleeve. "Come on, let's find a place to sit."
They walked together, but even among hundreds of students, eyes turned toward them.
Whispers followed:
"Did you see them?" "They walk like nobles but wear… commoner clothes?" "Who are they really?"
Some students whispered with respect. Others with envy. A few with malice.
Two older students blocked their path.
"You lost, commoners?" one sneered, eyes glinting. "This is noble territory. Go eat with the dogs."
Before Lyra could reply, Alen stepped forward.
His voice was calm, but his mana flared for just a second—like a flicker of lightning beneath his skin. The stone beneath him cracked.
"And you seem confused about who you're talking to," Alen said. "Do you always bark before thinking?"
The bullies hesitated… then backed away.
"Tch. Must be one of those hidden heirs or something…"
As they vanished into the crowd, Lyra grinned. "You're not exactly low profile, are you?"
Alen scratched his neck, sheepishly. "I just don't like rude people."
---
A Moment Between Them
Later that night, on a quiet balcony above the feasting crowd, Lyra and Alen stood side by side under the stars.
Music played softly below. Floating lanterns glided into the air, glowing gently.
"Today was… a lot," Lyra said.
"Yeah," Alen replied. "But somehow, it all felt right."
He looked at her again, this time not smiling.
"Lyra… I meant what I said earlier."
"About… falling for me?"
He nodded.
"I don't care about your family or your past. I like you for you. Whatever comes next… I want to face it with you."
She turned to him, her eyes shimmering. Then, without warning, she leaned up and kissed his cheek.
"Then don't make me regret it," she said. "Because I think I'm falling for you too."
---
End of Chapter 7